The Hillary

24-Feb-2018 Waitakere Ranges, Auckland, New Zealand

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Trail Race Race Terrain

80KM / 50Miles
1 Day - 500 Runners

Alternate Distances: 34KM/21M 16KM/10M

DIFFICULTY Race Difficulty Advanced

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THE 2018 AND 2019 EVENTS WERE CANCELLED. RACE WILL RETURN WHEN TRAIL RE-OPENS.

The 75km Hillary Trail was opened in 2010 and connects a network of existing tracks in the Waitakere Ranges (west of Auckland City) into a physically demanding 3-4 tramp.

Named after New Zealand’s Sir Edmund Hillary, you have to agree with the Hillary Trails guardians, Auckland Council’s claim that the Hillary Trail epitomises the sense of adventure and personal achievement that Ed Hillary himself championed and was renowned for. The Council website warns...”It is not a walk in the park - but a chance for well-prepared trampers to experience the diverse, and often challenging west coast.”

Sir Ed himself said "In some ways I believe I epitomise the average New Zealander: I have modest abilities, I combine these with a good deal of determination, and I rather like to succeed." These typically modest words were spoken by arguably the most famous living New Zealander – a sporting and adventure hero, who scaled heights and reached places where no human being had gone before. And hence the pull of the Hillary Trail to so many, we all want a challenge, so why tramp it when you can run!

Since its opening the lure of the trail to runners has become strong with many New Zealand trail runners attempting and successfully completing the trail.

As a regular runner of the Hillary Trail, Shaun Collins from Lactic Turkey Events cannot resist the urge to organise an event along the Trail. It’s time to share this trail with the world!

There is no denying, this is a tough challenge – mentally and physically. With 3,700m climb, the current fastest time is 8 hours 44 minutes. Many would think this seems a long time for 75km but, those that have done would agree – this is no ordinary 75km. The Trail follows a variety of terrain and scenery – many claim a magical pull of the trail and keep coming back for more.

Stunning views throughout the trail, rugged West coast beaches, magnificent native bush including the hundreds of year old native Kauri trees. Past large waterfalls and sand dunes, along cliff tops or through marshlands – there is something for everyone. Come along and Knock The Bugger off!

The full distance 80km event would start at Arataki and finish in Muriwai (at the Village Green) which is at the back of Muriwai. The extra 5km on top of the official trail is an extra portion at the start and end.

Associated events would include a 34km event starting at Piha and a 16km event starting at Bethells.

Event Organiser
Shaun Collins

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Beginner

Elevation: Very little change < 500 metres. Benign running terrain, not technical.

Suitable for: First ultra runners completing a marathon or doing regular long distance running in the last six months.

Intermediate

Elevation: Increase of up to 1000 metres

Suitable for: Runners who have completed at least one ultra distance race (or similar event) or are doing long distance running (>26 miles) regularly, with elevation shown.

Advanced

Elevation: Increase of up to 1500 metres

Suitable for: Runners who have completed several ultra distances or similar events, or are doing long distance running regularly, with elevation shown.

Expert

Elevation: Increase of up to 2000 metres with some challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity or heat) and or technical terrain

Suitable for: Experienced runners who have completed at least regular ultra distances in last 12 months, or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races may be subject to evidence of recent qualifying race participation and recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements.

Brutal

Elevation: Increase of up to 2000 metres with very challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity, heat or at high altitude) and or technical terrain.

Suitable for: Very experienced long distance ultra runners (min 3 years’ experience) or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races is often subject to evidence of recent qualifying race participation and recent medical examination certificate. Purchase of specialist kit is often recommended for these races.

Endurance - Multi-activity

Type: An ultra distance race including at least two of the following activities such as running, swimming, cycling, kayaking, skiing and climbing. It may also include different climatic conditions (eg ice, snow, humidity, cold water, mud or heat).

Suitable for: Experienced multi-skilled athletes who have trained for the different activities included in this event. Admission to these races may be subject to receipt of a recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements and any specialist equipment required such as a wetsuit, skis or a mountain bike.

Global - Virtual

Type: A virtual race which can be run at any time shown on the dates shown, on any type of terrain in any country.

Suitable for: For runners from beginners to experienced as you choose your own course and challenge based on the guidelines and options set by the virtual race organiser.

The Hillary